Prototype HST Planned for SVR Visit

Subject to final agreement from the National Railway Museum, we are hoping to have Prototype HST Power Car 41001 at the Severn Valley Railway Spring Diesel Festival from Thursday 16th to Saturday 18th May and Mixed Traction Day on Sunday 19th May.

Unique 41001 is planned to work public services between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth, hauling five of 125 Group’s Mk3 coaches, recreating the look of the Prototype High Speed Train.

The air-braked Mk3 vehicles planned to attend are First Open 11074, Standard 12087, 12092 and recently restored 12134, plus catering car 10206 which will be serving delicious hot and cold drinks and snacks from Buffet 125. The weekend will also feature other guest locomotives and the Severn Valley Railway resident fleet, for more details see the SVR website HERE.

The Prototype HST was built in 1972 and during testing between York and Darlington in 1973 smashed the UK rail and world diesel speed record reaching 143.2mph. It was the fore-runner to the hugely successful InterCity 125 Production HST fleet which revolutionised long distance UK rail travel. 41001 is part of the National Collection, restoration was funded and carried out by 125 Group under the ‘Project Miller’ banner after the power car had spent over 25 years as a static exhibit at York NRM. The power car is fitted with a ‘screaming’ Paxman Valenta engine of the type which originally powered all HSTs.

As always, plans are made and this information is provided in good faith, however all arrangements in railway preservation are subject to alteration in the event of changing circumstances, for which 125 Group can not be held liable. 41001 appears courtesy of and subject to final approval by its owners the NRM. As soon as final confirmation is received it will be announced on 125 Group and SVR websites and social media.